The Howard County Health Department (HCHD) works together with the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) Refugee Health Program to ensure that newly arriving refugees, asylees, parolees and other immigrants receive a thorough health screening with appropriate follow-up care, and needed referrals. The primary purpose of the screening is to identify and treat any communicable disease that may affect public health and to identify other medical conditions that may act as barriers to successful resettlement.

HCHD's New American Health Assessment & Referral Services program provides screening examinations, laboratory tests, prescription medications, immunizations, and health education for newly arrived refugees, utilizing interpreters and culturally sensitive health care to maximize the outcome for the population. New American Health Assessment & Referral Services staff works closely with local resettlement agencies and the HCHD Administrative Care Coordination Unit to assist the refugee, asylee, and parole’s transition into the American health care system.